Educator Resources and Programs
Educator Appreciation Day
A special day at the Zoo to celebrate educators. We want to acknowledge and thank you for all you do for Indiana’s youth. Educators are free and can purchase discounted admission for additional guests. Preregistration is required.
- Educators: FREE
- Adult and Youth Guests of Educators: $15
When:
- Wednesday March 18, 2026
- Tuesday April 7, 2026
Cost: $50 per team
Animal enrichment materials and activities are a key component of keeping animals healthy at the Zoo. Enrichment come in all shapes and sizes and are designed to stimulate natural behaviors and engage an animal’s body and brain. For the Animal Enrichment Presentations, student teams will present their own enrichment ideas with posterboards and prototypes. Zoo staff will ask questions and give feedback to the students. Admission to the Zoo is included for the teams that day. The Animal Enrichment Challenge aligns with both the Indiana Academic Standards and Next Generation Science Standards.
Join us for the Conservation Educator Academy, where you can learn from experts in wildlife conservation and animal care. Collaborate with fellow educators, explore the Zoo, and create a visual journal to share with your students. This three-day program offers the opportunity to observe STEM practices firsthand, participate in special zoo tours and experiences, and engage in hands-on STEM activities that you can incorporate into your teaching.
When:
- June 22-24 (8:30am-3pm)
Cost:
- $70 per person
Educators who participate in professional development provided by the Indianapolis Zoo will receive a certificate indicating the number of professional growth points awarded for their participation in the program. Each hour of professional development corresponds to one point towards an educator’s professional growth plan for state teacher license renewals.
School Program Guide
Download the 2024–2025 School Program Guide for quick reference about all we have to offer schools and educators!
Species at the Zoo
Conservation of Wild Species
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